2023 Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block 375ml Half Bottle

Description

Store Pickup Available

Pickup is available from Sip & Cellars, 1123 Burke Road, Kew VIC 3101.

The 2023 Boekenhoutskloof The Chocolate Block is a highly regarded, cult-status red blend from the acclaimed Boekenhoutskloof winery in South Africa’s Franschhoek and Swartland regions. Known for its rich, textured style and distinctive name, this wine is one of the most popular modern Southern Rhône–style blends from the New World.

The 2023 vintage is composed primarily of Syrah (approx. 77%), with smaller portions of Grenache, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, and a touch of Viognier, creating a layered and complex wine that balances power with elegance.

Fruit is sourced from select dry-farmed vineyard sites, with fermentation carried out using whole berries and followed by maturation in a combination of mostly seasoned French oak vessels, allowing purity of fruit and fine structure to remain at the forefront.

The bouquet is deep and expressive, showing blackberry, black cherry, and ripe plum, alongside aromatic layers of violet, liquorice, and dried herbs. Complex savoury notes of espresso, cocoa powder, sweet tobacco, and spice add richness and depth.

On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied, plush, and finely textured, with flavours of dark berries, plum, blackcurrant, and cranberry. The tannins are polished and powdery, supported by balanced acidity that gives freshness and lift.

The finish is long, smooth, and gently spicy, with lingering notes of black fruit, cocoa, graphite, pepper, and subtle earthiness, making it both immediately enjoyable and suitable for short- to medium-term cellaring (5–10 years).

A modern classic, the 2023 Chocolate Block delivers both crowd-pleasing richness and serious winemaking detail, earning its reputation as one of South Africa’s most iconic red blends.